Looking to have fun without alcohol? This guy has ideas that may help If you’re looking for inspiration to stick with Dry January, or you’re worried about the cancer risk linked to alcohol, you may want to check out booze-free gatherings happening all over the country. Read more on NPR

Fluoride analysis triggers renewed debate over what levels are safe for kids A new study suggests a link between high levels of fluoride and lowered IQ. It’s heating up arguments over fluoridating drinking water, which dentists say is critical for protecting teeth. Read more on NPR

More fires erupt in Southern California and spread to the Hollywood Hills Three new fires broke out in Los Angeles and Ventura counties on Wednesday. California Gov. Gavin Newsom said more than 7,500 personnel are helping in the response to the infernos. Read more on NPR

Imprisoned Belarus activist resurfaces after being incommunicado for over 700 days He was last heard from in February 2023. Since then, authorities haven’t released any information about his condition and barred his lawyer from visits. Read more on NPR

A major winter storm will bring snow to the South. Here are tips from winter experts Southern states don’t often deal with winter conditions, but New England does. New Hampshire especially has tips for how to prepare for a winter storm. Read more on NPR

U.S. stock markets close to honor former President Jimmy Carter The New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq will both observe Thursday’s national day of mourning in a Wall Street tradition dating back to 1865. Read more on NPR

What’s next for Canada? 5 questions will help decide the future after Trudeau “We’re in a unique situation in Canadian politics,” Shachi Kurl, president of the Angus Reid Institute, tells NPR. Voters need to replace a lame-duck leader — and cope with threats from Trump. Read more on NPR

Here’s what’s behind Russia cutting off its last gas line to Europe A decades-long Russian-Ukrainian transit gas deal to Europe ended on Jan. 1. For now, the most acute effects are being felt in a region called Transnistria, on the eastern edge of Moldova. Read more on NPR

Special ed students benefit from being integrated at school. It doesn’t always happen Research shows including students with and without disabilities in the same classroom can benefit everyone. Two students with Down syndrome show what can be gained when that happens. Read more on NPR

All 5 living presidents expected to attend Jimmy Carter’s National Cathedral funeral President Biden is expected to deliver a eulogy to former President Jimmy Carter at the National Cathedral service. Read more on NPR